Russia's unsold MiGs: North Korean deal on the horizon?
Russia is "stuck" with MiG-29SMT fighters that it failed to sell to Algeria. Analysts from the Ukrainian portal Defense Express now suggest that these aircraft might end up in North Korea in exchange for military support.
Russia tried to sell MiG-29SMT fighters to Algeria; however, the deal could not be finalized due to the poor technical condition of the aircraft. Algeria returned the first batch of 15 planes back in 2006. Currently, these aircraft are stationed at the 513th repair facility near Kursk, posing a dilemma for Russia regarding their future use.
Possible scenarios for MiG-29SMT
Algeria initially ordered the MiG-29SMT but quickly backed out of the purchase. Russia couldn't find new buyers for these planes, which did not even pique the interest of the Russian Ministry of Defence. As a result, these aircraft remain in storage, and their future is uncertain. Defense Express speculates that this situation might be related to Russia's ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian portal, Russia might consider handing over these aircraft, which "do not meet standards," to North Korea in exchange for military support. Such a decision would align with Russia's past practices of supplying sub-standard equipment to its allies. An example includes the transfer of Su-35S aircraft to Iran from an unfulfilled contract with Egypt.
Political and military background
The MiG-29SMT was originally intended for Algeria, but due to technical issues, Algeria cancelled the deal, and the aircraft were returned to Russia. Russia had to find a new buyer or use the aircraft for its own purposes.
In the political context, intensive military exchange between Russia and North Korea is gathering momentum. Pyongyang is signing agreements with Moscow to increase economic cooperation, and military transfers are happening behind the scenes, though details remain confidential.
Due to sanctions, Russia is seeking alternative routes for cooperation. North Korea has begun supplying Russia with weapons, including artillery, stirring international controversy.
To clarify, the MiG-29SMT aircraft differ from previous versions due to a new radar and improved avionics. Furthermore, the SMT variant features an enhanced cockpit with three multifunction displays and a head-up display (HUD) that presents, among other things, the navigation system.
